Los Angeles Chargers left tackle Rashawn Slater was carted off during Thursday’s practice due to a concerning leg injury, as reported by Daniel Popper of The Athletic. Teammates rallied around Slater, lending their support as the veteran lineman left the field.
The injury occurred during an 11-on-11 drill when another player inadvertently fell onto Slater’s left leg. Medical staff attended to him briefly before assisting him onto the cart. Eyewitness accounts noted that Slater expressed frustration by slamming his hand on the cart and burying his head in his hands.
Slater, who was the No. 13 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, has proven to be an essential asset for the Chargers’ offensive line. He made a significant impact as a rookie, starting all 16 games and earning both first-team All-Rookie honors and a Pro Bowl selection. Over the past two seasons, he has started 35 games and was recognized again with a Pro Bowl selection after an outstanding performance last fall, allowing only three sacks out of 510 pass-blocking snaps.
This offseason, the Chargers locked Slater into a lucrative four-year contract worth $114 million, with $92 million guaranteed, making him the highest-paid offensive lineman in NFL history. His role is crucial, especially as he protects star quarterback Justin Herbert’s blindside.
If Slater’s injury is indeed serious, it would mark the second significant period he has missed in the last four seasons due to injury. He previously tore his bicep in Week 3 of the 2023 season against the Jaguars, sidelining him for the rest of that year.
In Slater’s absence, the Chargers will need to evaluate their left tackle options. Joe Alt, currently the starting right tackle, has experience playing left tackle from his college days at Notre Dame. Backup options include Trey Pipkins III and Ryan Nelson, as listed in the Chargers’ initial training camp depth chart.
While the situation is concerning, there remains optimism within the Chargers organization and among fans regarding the depth and adaptability of the offensive line. The team will undoubtedly rally to support one of their key players and seek to maintain performance throughout any challenges ahead.